Robin Lehner nominated for Vezina and Masterson Trophies

Robin Lehner has become the shining light for all who have been afflicted for mental health issues.  The goaltender has done it on and off the ice, getting his life back together and playing the best hockey of his career.  His story is an interesting one, as he came into the NHL as a top goaltending prospect but could never stay consistent or healthy enough to compete.  He had demons that he needed to deal with and he was recently diagnosed with bipolar disorder.  He got himself clean and sober after years of alcohol and substance abuse.  He is a true inspiration to his teammates and all around him, and now he’s being honored with two nominations.

The Masterson Trophy is the award given to player who exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to ice hockey.  The finalists are Robin Lehner, Joe Thornton (San Jose Sharks) and Nick Foligno (Columbus Blue Jackets).  Obviously it’s a huge honor for Lehner to be nominated for this, but it shouldn’t come as a surprise.  He is one of the best stories in sports and deserves this honor.

The Vezina Trophy is awarded to the NHL’s best goaltender each year.  Lehner has been nominated along with Andrei Vasilevskiy (Tampa Bay Lightning) and Ben Bishop (Dallas Stars).  Lehner was actually a surprise nomination for this award considering he and Thomas Greiss essentially split the duties of goaltending throughout the season.  Lehner had excellent numbers, posting a 25-13-5 record with a 2.13 GAA and .930 SV %.

Lehner deserves both awards, but his focus is currently on the Stanley Cup Playoffs.  The Islanders will face the winner of the series between the Carolina Hurricanes and the Washington Capitals.  Game Six between the two teams is tonight, and that will be Lehner and his team’s focus.